Go Back

Homemade Croutons Recipe

a baking tray full of homemade bread croutons: This easy homemade croutons recipe makes perfectly crispy, golden croutons with loads of garlic and herb flavour. Ready in under 20 minutes, they’re the best way to use up leftover or stale bread and add a crunchy topping to salads, soups, or casseroles. You’ll never buy store-bought croutons again!
This easy homemade croutons recipe makes perfectly crispy, golden croutons with loads of garlic and herb flavour. Ready in under 20 minutes, they’re the best way to use up leftover or stale bread and add a crunchy topping to salads, soups, or casseroles. You’ll never buy store-bought croutons again!
Munchyesta.com
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Serving Size 4 cups

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf bread - about 12 oz, cut or torn into ¾-inch cubes
  • ¼ cup olive oil or melted coconut oil
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 1½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¾ tsp fine sea salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  • Preheat Oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Season the Bread: In a small bowl, mix all herbs and seasonings. Drizzle olive oil over the bread cubes in a large bowl, then sprinkle the seasoning mix on top. Toss until well-coated.
  • Bake the Croutons: Spread the cubes evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy on all sides.
  • Cool Completely: Let cool before storing. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Air Fryer Croutons Instructions

  • Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  • Place bread cubes in a single layer in the basket.
  • Air fry for 4 minutes, toss, then cook 2–3 minutes more until golden and crisp.
  • Cool completely before storing.

Notes

Best Bread for Homemade Croutons
The best bread for croutons has a sturdy texture and rich flavour. Try sourdough, baguette, whole-grain, rustic country loaf, or ciabatta for the crunchiest results. Day-old or slightly stale bread works best!
Pro Tips
  • Tear, don’t cut: Torn bread gives croutons craggier edges for extra crunch.
  • Don’t overcrowd: Spread the cubes out for even crisping.
  • Make them your own: Try garlic-parmesan, chili-lime, or sweet cinnamon croutons!
Variations
  • Garlic Parmesan Croutons: Add 3 tbsp grated Parmesan before baking.
  • Spicy Croutons: Mix in chili flakes or smoked paprika.
  • Sweet Croutons: Swap herbs for cinnamon and coconut sugar — perfect for fruit salads or yogurt bowls.
  • Gluten-Free Croutons: Use gluten-free bread and air fry for best results.
Storage & Freezing
Store cooled croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
To refresh, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to re-crisp.
Freeze for up to 3 months — reheat before serving for that just-baked crunch.
🍲 Serving Ideas
  • Sprinkle over Caesar or garden salads.
  • Add to creamy soups like tomato, pumpkin, or mushroom.
  • Crush for use as seasoned breadcrumbs.
  • Snack on them straight from the jar (they’re that good!).